The Writer’s Reader

Welcome all indie authors and writers. Congratulations on finishing your novel ! This is an exciting time and I am here to help you move to the next step. Your draft is ready for another set of eyes and I am here to be your reader and/or editor. The Writer’s Reader edits and beta reads for both established authors and new writers eager to publish their first book whether the choice is to self-publish or publish traditionally. Specializing in helping new writers, I gently guide new author’s novels to grammatical accuracy and perfect a storyline that will grab the reader in the first paragraph! Do you want line-editing, a beta-read, proofreading, developmental editing or something in between? I provide all of these.

•  Beta Reading: I will evaluate your story, for plot, POV, characterization, natural dialogue, continuity, etc.
• Line-editing: I will assure that texts are free of common errors such as, non-parallel sentence structure, pronoun reference, POV shifts or improper subject–verb agreement. Texts are checked for proper grammar as well as effective sentence structure, pace, organization, flow and character development.
•  Proofreading: I will humanly and electronically correct grammatical errors and typos.

My rates are way below the norm and my credentials above the norm. Five years working for a New York trade publishing house (now Penguin USA), 4 years managing an independent bookstore (buyer), BA in English Lit, college composition instructor (please forgive me) and avid reader, all make me abundantly qualified to edit and beta-read. And I am fast! I can generally read a novel and critique it in 2-3 weeks. Reply to this post, add your email address and I will contact you directly for more details about submitting a sample. You can also send me a sample directly to sharonumbaugh@gmail.com. Now booking for fall 2022.